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NAFDAC Intensifies War on Fake Medicines with Digital Tools, Pediatric Safeguards. GreenBook database, supply chain tracking, and child-focused regulations target substandard drugs in high-risk Northwest Zone.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has escalated its fight against counterfeit medical products with the rollout of three groundbreaking initiatives.
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These are GreenBook database, a Supply Chain Traceability Project, and Pediatric Policy 2024. The measures, unveiled during a stakeholder sensitization workshop in Nigeria’s Northwest Zone, aim to curb the proliferation of substandard and falsified medicines, particularly in high-risk regions like Kano.
Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye
“Counterfeiters now use AI and dark web sales. Our GreenBook and traceability tech empower pharmacists and parents to scan product legitimacy in seconds. For children, the Pediatric Policy ensures medicines meet global safety benchmarks,” said NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye.
She was represented by Mr. Bitrus Fraden, NAFDAC’s Director of Post-Marketing Surveillance.
Key Initiatives Explained
- NAFDAC GreenBook: Launched in January 2024, this digital registry allows consumers and healthcare providers to instantly verify the authenticity of over 6,000 registered drugs via mobile or desktop.
- Traceability Project: A blockchain-powered system tracking pharmaceuticals from factory to patient, enabling real-time detection of illicit products.
- Pediatric Policy 2024: Mandates stricter safety and dosage standards for children’s medications, addressing a critical gap in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Nigeria’s war against counterfeit drug
- Counterfeit Crisis: 20% of medicines in Nigeria are substandard (WHO), with the Northwest accounting for 35% of seizures (NAFDAC 2023).
- Child Vulnerabilities: 30% of pediatric deaths in Nigeria linked to adulterated drugs (UNICEF).
- Economic Impact: Fake drugs cost Nigeria’s economy $900 million annually (Nigerian Pharmaceutical Society).
“Kano remains a hotspot for fake drug syndicates. With these tools, we’ll shut down illegal warehouses, revoke licenses, and prosecute offenders—including prison terms up to 10 years under the Counterfeit Act,” said Mr. Fraden Mullah, NAFDAC’s Northwest Zonal Director.
Workshop Highlights
- Training: 500+ healthcare workers, wholesalers, and law enforcement agents trained to use GreenBook verification and traceability portals.
- Tech Demo: Live sessions on detecting fake barcodes, packaging flaws, and chemical composition mismatches.
- Regional Focus: Mobile units deployed to rural clinics in Katsina, Kaduna, and Sokoto to expand access.
Legal Teeth
NAFDAC’s strengthened enforcement includes:
- Instant Facility Closures: For pharmacies stocking unverified drugs.
- Fines Up to ₦50 Million: For manufacturers violating pediatric standards.
- Public Naming: Weekly publish lists of banned products on social media (@NAFDACNigeria).
